Football is more than just a sport; it’s a global phenomenon that has shaped cultures and united nations and inspired countless individuals. Over the years, some of the most iconic figures in football have shared their stories through autobiographies, offering fans a rare glimpse into their personal lives, career highs, and lows, as well as the challenges they’ve faced both on and off the pitch. These autobiographies not only document their journeys but also provide insights into the evolution of the game and its impact on society.
In this article, we explore the top 10 football autobiographies that every fan of the beautiful game should have on their bookshelf.
“I Am Zlatan Ibrahimović” by Zlatan Ibrahimović
Zlatan Ibrahimović’s autobiography, “I Am Zlatan Ibrahimović,” is as captivating as the man himself. Known for his larger-than-life personality, audacious goals, and outspoken nature, Zlatan’s story is a testament to the power of self-belief and resilience. Born in Malmö, Sweden, to immigrant parents, Ibrahimović faced numerous challenges growing up in a tough neighborhood. His journey from playing in the streets of Rosengård to becoming one of the world’s most prolific and decorated strikers is nothing short of extraordinary.
The book is filled with Zlatan’s trademark bravado, but it also reveals a more vulnerable side to the player. He speaks candidly about his clashes with managers, particularly his tumultuous relationship with Pep Guardiola at Barcelona, and his experiences at clubs like Ajax, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. The autobiography is not just a chronicle of his football career but also a reflection on the struggles of growing up in a marginalized community and the challenges of adapting to different cultures and environments.
“My Life in Football” by Kevin Keegan
Kevin Keegan is one of the most beloved figures in English football, and his autobiography, “My Life in Football,” offers a comprehensive look at his illustrious career as both a player and a manager. Keegan’s football journey began at Scunthorpe United, but it was at Liverpool where he truly made his mark, winning numerous domestic and European honors. His time at Hamburg in the Bundesliga further solidified his reputation as one of the best players of his generation.
The book delves into Keegan’s playing career, but it also provides a detailed account of his managerial stints, most notably at Newcastle United. Keegan’s tenure at Newcastle is particularly poignant, as he came agonizingly close to winning the Premier League title in the 1995-96 season. His relationship with the club and its passionate supporters is a central theme in the book. Keegan’s journey underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability, both as a player and a manager.
“My Turn: The Autobiography” by Johan Cruyff
Johan Cruyff is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers and thinkers in the history of the game. His autobiography, “My Turn,” is a reflection of his immense contributions to football, both on and off the pitch. Cruyff’s career as a player at Ajax and Barcelona, and later as a manager, is well-documented, but this book offers a deeper insight into the philosophy that drove him to revolutionise the sport.
Cruyff is credited with developing the concept of “Total Football,” a tactical approach that emphasized fluidity, versatility, and attacking football. This philosophy not only brought success to the teams he was involved with but also influenced generations of players and managers. In “My Turn,” Cruyff explains the principles behind his footballing ideology and how they were implemented at Ajax, Barcelona, and beyond. Cruyff’s insights into football tactics and philosophy are invaluable for anyone looking to understand the game’s evolution.
“Playing It My Way” by Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney’s autobiography, “Playing It My Way,” offers a candid and in-depth look at the career of one of England’s most iconic footballers. From his early days as a prodigious talent at Everton to becoming Manchester United’s all-time leading goal scorer, Rooney’s journey is marked by incredible achievements and moments of controversy.
The book covers Rooney’s relationships with key figures in his career, including his managers at Manchester United, such as Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes. Rooney discusses his admiration for Ferguson and how their relationship evolved over the years, from the highs of winning multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy to the challenges that came with managing the pressures of being the face of English football. Rooney’s autobiography highlights the complexities of life as a football superstar.
“Winning Hearts, Minds and Matches” by Carlo Ancelotti
Carlo Ancelotti is one of the most respected managers in football, and his autobiography, “Quiet Leadership,” provides a unique perspective on what it takes to lead some of the world’s most successful teams. Ancelotti’s managerial career has seen him win league titles in Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain, as well as three Champions League titles, making him one of the most decorated managers in the history of the game.
In “Quiet Leadership,” Ancelotti shares his philosophy on management, which is centered around building strong relationships with players and staff. He emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, communication, and maintaining a calm demeanor, even in the most high-pressure situations. The book is filled with anecdotes from his time at clubs like AC Milan, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at how he managed some of football’s biggest stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrea Pirlo, and Frank Lampard.
“How Not to Be a Professional Footballer” by Paul Merson
Paul Merson’s autobiography, “How Not to Be a Professional Footballer,” is a brutally honest and, at times, heartbreaking account of his career and personal struggles. Merson, who was a key player for Arsenal during the late 1980s and early 1990s, battled with addiction throughout his career, and this book does not shy away from detailing the impact that gambling, alcohol, and drugs had on his life.
Merson’s writing is characterized by his trademark wit and humor, but the underlying themes are serious and sobering. He reflects on the pressures of being a professional footballer, the temptations that come with fame, and the lack of support available for players dealing with personal issues during his time. Despite the heavy subject matter, Merson’s ability to laugh at himself and his mistakes makes this an engaging read. Merson’s autobiography serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction and the importance of mental health support for athletes.
“Stillness and Speed: My Story” by Dennis Bergkamp
Dennis Bergkamp’s “Stillness and Speed” is a beautifully written autobiography that reflects the Dutchman’s thoughtful and introspective nature. Bergkamp, known for his incredible technique and composure on the ball, had a career that spanned some of Europe’s top clubs, including Ajax, Inter Milan, and Arsenal. His autobiography provides a deep dive into his philosophy of football, his approach to the game, and the moments of brilliance that defined his career.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Bergkamp’s story is his aversion to flying, which significantly impacted his career, particularly during his time at Arsenal. The book explores how he managed to maintain his form and contribute to his team despite this unique challenge. “Stillness and Speed” also features interviews with former teammates and managers, adding depth to Bergkamp’s narrative. Bergkamp’s autobiography is a masterclass in the art of playing football with elegance and intelligence.
“My Story” by Steven Gerrard
Steven Gerrard’s autobiography, “My Story,” is a deeply personal account of his career as one of Liverpool’s greatest ever players. Gerrard’s loyalty to Liverpool, his experiences in the Champions League, and his near-misses in the Premier League are all covered in this heartfelt narrative. The book provides a detailed look at Gerrard’s journey from a young boy dreaming of playing for his boyhood club to becoming the captain and talisman of one of the world’s most famous football teams.
Gerrard’s autobiography is notable for its honesty, particularly when discussing the lows of his career, such as the infamous slip against Chelsea that cost Liverpool the Premier League title in 2014. He also reflects on his relationships with managers like Gérard Houllier, Rafael Benítez, and Brendan Rodgers, as well as his decision to leave Liverpool for LA Galaxy at the end of his playing days. Gerrard’s story is a powerful reminder of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with playing at the highest level of football.
“A Life in Football” by Ian Wright
Ian Wright’s autobiography, “A Life in Football,” is an inspirational rags-to-riches story that resonates with many football fans. Wright’s journey from a challenging upbringing in South London to becoming one of Arsenal’s greatest goal-scorers is both heartwarming and motivational. His story is one of perseverance, resilience, and an unrelenting desire to succeed against all odds.
The book covers Wright’s early struggles, including his late entry into professional football and the obstacles he faced along the way. Despite these challenges, Wright’s natural talent and determination saw him rise through the ranks, first at Crystal Palace and then at Arsenal, where he became a fan favorite and a key player in the club’s success during the 1990s. Wright’s autobiography is a celebration of perseverance and the power of football to change lives.
“Leading” by Alex Ferguson and Michael Moritz
While not a traditional autobiography, “Leading” by Sir Alex Ferguson, co-written with Michael Moritz, offers a wealth of insights into the mind of one of football’s greatest managers. Ferguson’s tenure at Manchester United, where he won 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, and numerous other honors, is the stuff of legend. In “Leading,” Ferguson shares the principles and strategies that guided him throughout his career.
The book focuses on leadership and management, with Ferguson discussing key topics such as team building, decision-making, and handling pressure. He provides examples from his time at Manchester United, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at how he managed some of football’s biggest egos and built a winning culture at the club.
Ferguson’s emphasis on discipline, adaptability, and maintaining high standards is a recurring theme in the book. Ferguson’s leadership strategies provide a blueprint for success, emphasizing discipline, adaptability, and the importance of teamwork which makes it one of the Top 10 Football Autobiographies. Also check out the top 10 football movies.
